Prompt Title: Dukkha and Non-Self.

In this episode of Insight Hour, Joseph Goldstein explores the complex and profound concept of non-self in Buddhism and its relationship to dukkha, which is commonly translated as suffering but can also mean unreliable or ultimately unsatisfying. Goldstein notes that while the truths of impermanence and suffering are relatively easy to understand, non-self is much more challenging to comprehend because it goes against our everyday sense of self and the language we use, which reinforces the sense of "I" as the subject of experience.

To illustrate the importance of non-self, Goldstein shares the story of the Buddha's first discourse after his enlightenment, where he taught the Five Ascetics about the Four Noble Truths, including the truth of dukkha and the teaching on non-self. The Five Ascetics became fully enlightened upon hearing the discourse on the characteristic of non-self, which highlights the essential Buddhist insight that there is no permanent, unchanging self or soul, but rather a constantly changing stream of experience.

Goldstein goes on to explain that the body and its physical elements are ungovernable and not subject to our will. The body ages, gets sick, and ultimately dies, and we cannot control its processes. However, by reflecting on the universality of experiences of old age, illness, death, and impermanence, we can begin to cut through our attachment to the body and identify less with it as a sense of self.

Furthermore, Goldstein suggests that a deepening realization of non-self can lead to a growing sense of connection and compassion for others. When we understand that there is no permanent, separate self, we begin to see ourselves in others and feel a sense of unity and interdependence with all beings. Goldstein encourages listeners to cultivate perfect wisdom and remember the words, "This is not I, this is not mine, this is not myself" when the mind feels contracted and caught up in selfing.

Ultimately, Goldstein suggests that a deep understanding of non-self can lead to greater freedom and liberation. By letting go of the illusion of a permanent self and recognizing the constantly changing nature of experience, we can begin to let go of attachment and suffering and cultivate a sense of peace and interconnectedness.